I own both an EAR 834P (NOS) and a MS Phonomena. They are both very cost effective units. I'm a tube kinda guy and I like the EAR, particularly on string tones. Even adjusted for my tube bias I don't see how the Phonomena "smokes" the EAR.
EAR preamp and phono products
Several local highend shops here in California are touting the EAR products (made in UK). Specifically, I have been shown the 834L line amp and 843P phono stage. They do sound very good through a CJ SS amp that was used as a demo. Anyone have experience with these products?